Native Plants

Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Thursday - June 11, 2009

From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives
Title: Thrips on non-native roses in Austin
Answered by: Barbara Medford

QUESTION:

How can I get rid of thrips that have totally invaded all of my roses?

ANSWER:

First, we need to remind you that the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is focused on the care and propagation of plants native not only to North America but to the area in which they are being grown. With very few exceptions, all roses are non-native, having come to North America with European settlers, but mostly originating very long ago in China. However, thrips can be damaging to other plants, including natives, so we will refer you to this University of California Integrated Pest Management website on Pests in Gardens in Landscapes: Thrips.

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Thursday - June 11, 2009

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